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Distribution

Chiefly from the Cameroon, and Gabon, also from Zaire.

The Tree

The african rose wood trees are fairly large, with clear boles 9-18m long and 1.1.5m in diameter.

The Timber

The heartwood is a medium reddish-brown or purplish- brown with darker veining, similar to some types of rosewood with a fine texture. It is of the same order of density as Brazilian rosewood, between 0.8 and 0.96 in the seasoned condition. The grain may be straight or interlocked but some logs have very irregular grain which gives a highly decorative figure to rotary-cut veneer.

Uses

African Rose Wood has been used mostly in the form of veneer for decorative purposes, and would seem to have further possibilities as an alternative to rosewood for high-class furniture and cabinetwork, and fancy turnery such as knife handles and brush backs.

Density

Not available